St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub - 170ml
St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub - Face Scrub with Salicylic Acid 170ml
Clear stubborn blackheads and prevent breakouts with the St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub. This dermatologist-tested face scrub delivers a powerful dual-action treatment that physically exfoliates dead skin cells while chemically treating acne with 1% Salicylic Acid. The result? Visibly clearer, smoother skin with fewer blackheads and breakouts.
Infused with 100% Natural Green Tea and Olive Leaf extracts, this moderate-intensity scrub unclogs pores, removes dirt and excess oil, and soothes skin without causing redness or irritation. Unlike harsh scrubs that can aggravate acne, this formula is gentle enough for active breakouts while being tough on blackheads.
Key Benefits
- Clears blackheads effectively - Dual-action formula physically and chemically removes blackheads
- Treats and prevents acne - 1% Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to fight breakouts
- Unclogs pores deeply - Removes dirt, oil, and impurities trapped in pores
- Exfoliates dead skin cells - Natural exfoliants smooth rough texture
- Controls excess oil - Helps regulate sebum production
- Minimizes pore appearance - Regular use reduces visible pore size
- Soothes with antioxidants - Green Tea calms inflammation and redness
- Gentle on sensitive areas - Moderate exfoliation suitable for active breakouts
Dual-Action Blackhead Fighting Formula
What makes this scrub uniquely effective is its two-pronged approach to clearing blackheads:
Physical Exfoliation:
Natural exfoliating particles (bamboo powder) manually buff away dead skin cells, surface impurities, and the visible "caps" of blackheads. This immediate mechanical action leaves skin feeling instantly smoother and looking clearer.
Chemical Exfoliation:
1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) penetrates deep into pores to dissolve the oil and debris that cause blackheads and acne. Unlike physical exfoliation alone, Salicylic Acid works beneath the surface to prevent future blackheads from forming.
Powerful Natural Ingredients
- Green Tea Extract (100% Natural): Packed with antioxidants and polyphenols that fight free radicals, reduce inflammation, calm redness, and protect skin from environmental damage. Green Tea also has natural antibacterial properties that help prevent acne
- Salicylic Acid (1%): Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that penetrates oil-filled pores to dissolve blackheads, unclog pores, reduce acne, and prevent future breakouts. Oil-soluble formula works deep within pores where water-based ingredients can't reach
- Olive Leaf Extract (100% Natural): Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and support skin healing
- Bamboo Powder: Natural, gentle exfoliant that buffs away dead skin cells without harsh scratching or micro-tears
- Glycerin: Humectant that maintains skin moisture during exfoliation to prevent over-drying
Why Green Tea for Acne-Prone Skin?
Green Tea is one of nature's most powerful skincare ingredients, especially for acne-prone and oily skin. Its high concentration of EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) provides:
- Anti-inflammatory benefits that reduce acne-related redness and swelling
- Antibacterial properties that fight acne-causing bacteria
- Sebum regulation to control excess oil production
- Antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
- Soothing effects that calm irritated, reactive skin
Perfect For
Acne-prone skin, oily skin, combination skin, blackheads, enlarged pores, rough texture, dull complexion, clogged pores, and anyone seeking an effective yet gentle exfoliating treatment. Suitable for teens and adults dealing with persistent blackheads and breakouts.
How to Use for Best Results
- Wet face: Splash your face with warm water to open pores
- Dispense: Squeeze a quarter-sized amount into your palm
- Apply: Gently massage onto face in circular motions, focusing on blackhead-prone areas (nose, chin, forehead)
- Massage: Continue for 30-60 seconds, avoiding eye area
- Rinse: Thoroughly rinse with lukewarm water
- Pat dry: Gently pat face dry with clean towel
- Follow up: Apply oil-free moisturizer and sunscreen (AM use)
Usage Recommendations
- Frequency: Use 3-4 times per week for oily skin, 2-3 times for combination skin
- Best time: Evening use recommended to allow skin to recover overnight
- Avoid over-exfoliating: Don't use daily - give skin time to regenerate between uses
- Sun protection: Always use SPF during the day when using Salicylic Acid products
- Patch test: Test on small area first if you have sensitive skin
Target Areas for Blackheads
Focus extra attention on these common blackhead zones:
- Nose: The most common area for blackheads due to high oil production
- Chin: Prone to both blackheads and whiteheads
- Forehead: T-zone area with active sebaceous glands
- Cheeks (near nose): Often overlooked but prone to clogged pores
What to Expect
- Immediate: Skin feels smoother, cleaner, and refreshed after first use
- After 1 week: Visible reduction in surface blackheads and improved texture
- After 2-3 weeks: Noticeably clearer pores, fewer breakouts, more even skin tone
- With continued use: Significantly reduced blackheads, minimized pores, clearer complexion
Product Specifications
- Size: 170ml / 6 fl oz
- Exfoliation Level: Moderate (gentle enough for active breakouts)
- Texture: Creamy scrub with natural exfoliating particles
- Scent: Fresh green tea fragrance
- Active Ingredient: 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA)
- Natural Extracts: 100% Natural Green Tea & Olive Leaf
- Brand: St. Ives (Unilever)
- Dermatologist-Tested: Yes
- Oil-Free: Yes
- Paraben-Free: Yes
- Suitable For: Acne-prone and oily skin types
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this scrub every day?
No, we recommend using this scrub 2-4 times per week depending on your skin type. Daily use can lead to over-exfoliation, irritation, and compromised skin barrier. Oily skin can tolerate 3-4 times weekly, while combination skin should use 2-3 times weekly.
Is this suitable for sensitive skin?
While this scrub is gentler than many acne treatments, it contains physical exfoliants and Salicylic Acid which may be too strong for very sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin, start with once weekly use and monitor your skin's response.
Can I use this if I have active acne?
Yes! The moderate exfoliation level and Salicylic Acid make it suitable for use on active breakouts. However, be gentle when massaging over inflamed areas and avoid aggressive scrubbing.
Will this completely remove all my blackheads?
This scrub significantly reduces blackheads with regular use, but blackheads are an ongoing concern that requires consistent care. For best results, use as part of a complete acne-fighting routine with cleanser, treatment, and oil-free moisturizer.
Should I use this in the morning or evening?
Evening use is recommended. This allows your skin to recover overnight and reduces sun sensitivity from the Salicylic Acid. Always use SPF during the day when using BHA products.
Can I use this with other acne treatments?
Yes, but be cautious about over-treating. If you're using other Salicylic Acid or exfoliating products, reduce the frequency of this scrub to avoid irritation. Don't use on the same day as retinoids or strong chemical peels.
How long does the 170ml tube last?
With 3-4 uses per week, the 170ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months, making it excellent value for an effective blackhead treatment.
Why Choose St. Ives Blackhead Clearing Green Tea Scrub
St. Ives has been a trusted name in skincare for over 30 years, known for creating effective, affordable products with natural ingredients. This Blackhead Clearing scrub combines the brand's expertise in natural exfoliation with proven acne-fighting ingredients like Salicylic Acid.
Unlike single-action products that only address surface issues, this dual-action formula works both above and below the skin's surface to clear existing blackheads and prevent new ones from forming. The addition of soothing Green Tea and Olive Leaf extracts ensures your skin gets the treatment it needs without harsh irritation.
Pro Tips:
- Use warm water to open pores before scrubbing for deeper cleansing
- Don't scrub too hard - let the ingredients do the work
- Follow with a clay mask once weekly for enhanced pore clearing
- Always moisturize after exfoliating, even if you have oily skin
- Store in a cool, dry place and close cap tightly to maintain freshness